The Dog Breeds That Deserve Far More Love Than They Get
There is no shortage of dog breeds in the world, yet conversation tends to circle back to the same familiar names. French Bulldogs, Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers, and Poodles dominate most popular lists year after year, earning devoted followings and near-universal recognition. For all the love poured onto those household names, however, there are dozens of equally lovable and underrated breeds just waiting to be discovered.
The reasons a breed slips beneath public radar are rarely about temperament or loyalty. More often it comes down to visibility, marketing, and the self-reinforcing cycle of popularity. Many of the most loyal, affectionate, and easy-going dogs are hiding in plain sight, passed over simply because they are not trendy, even though some of them are highly trainable, low-maintenance, and wonderfully friendly once they warm up to you. Choosing a lesser-known breed can also carry practical advantages, from shorter breeder waitlists to a higher chance of finding one in a shelter.
Parade Pets recently asked Dr. Liza Cahn, DVM, veterinary consultant at Embrace Pet Insurance, to shine a light on seven breeds that deserve a second look. The list spans enormous variety, from ancient hairless dogs to cheerful Irish terriers, and every entry makes a compelling case for going off the beaten path. Among the most immediately charming is the Glen of Imaal Terrier, a compact Irish breed that ranks near the bottom of the AKC’s most popular breeds list despite having an enormous personality. Known for being inquisitive, clever, and affectionate, Glen of Imaal Terriers have a calmer disposition compared to other high-energy terriers, giving them a more manageable presence in family settings.
The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier also made the list, celebrated for its silky wheat-colored coat and gentle nature. According to Parade Pets, Dr. Cahn describes these dogs as sweet, playful, and intelligent, noting that their low-shedding coats make them a practical choice for allergy-prone households. Then there is the Xoloitzcuintli, a breed as ancient as it is striking. Sometimes called the Xolo for short, this hairless breed is around three thousand years old and was revered as a sacred dog of the gods by the Aztecs, serving today as both a loving companion and a vigilant watchdog.
Pit Bulls also appear on the list, a grouping that surprises many people, and Dr. Cahn points out that the term does not refer to a single breed but rather a type of dog with similar features and common ancestry, one that with proper training and socialization can be a genuinely sweet and devoted family pet. Rounding out the seven are the Field Spaniel, the Treeing Walker Coonhound, and the Chinook, each bringing a distinct history, energy level, and personality to the table.
What unites all seven is the gap between what they offer and the recognition they receive. Breeds like the Glen of Imaal Terrier are little powerhouses that appreciate having a job, but will equally expect to curl up and snuggle on the couch at the end of the day, a quality many dog lovers would consider ideal. The dogs on this list are proof that the most rewarding matches often come from looking where others have not.
If you have ever shared your life with one of these overlooked breeds, what was it that made you fall for them when so few others had?
